Government urged to ratify new UN convention

The Equal Partners Foundation has exhorted the government to ratify and implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities approved by the United Nations last month.

This Convention was passed by 102 votes to five with eight abstentions, and covers all aspects of life, including the right to life, liberty, security, independent living, freedom from exploitation and right to an adequate standard of living and social protection.

The foundation noted that article 29 stipulates that: "Parties shall guarantee to persons with disabilities political rights and the opportunity to enjoy them on an equal basis with others".

It urged Malta's political parties to take action "to ensure the inclusion and empowerment of all disabled persons in the political process, especially in the selection of our representatives".